Sen. Neal Kedzie, R-Elkhorn, announced Tuesday that he plans to retire at the end of the legislative session after 12 years in Wisconsin State Senate

In April, Kedzie announced he was seeking re-election to the state Senate's 11th District seat.

Kedzie, 58, wants to spend more time with his family and pursue opportunities outside of state government, according to a Tuesday news release.

Kedzie was elected to the state senate in 2002, then re-elected in 2006 and 2010. Before that he served three terms in the state Assembly as the 43rd District representative.

He called his political experience "wonderful" and said in the release that his time in the senate has allowed him "to be a part of the most notable days in Wisconsin state history."

In April, Kedzie claimed his successes included tax relief, balancing environmental and economic needs, and government reform.

"While we may have differing ideas and vision for this great state, I know each member of the Legislature, Republicans and Democrats, wishes only the best for Wisconsin, and to leave it in a better place than when they first arrived," Kedzie said in the Tuesday release.

Rep. Amy Loudenbeck, R-Clinton, released a statement Tuesday afternoon thanking Kedzie for his years of service.

"Senator Kedzie has served his constituents for many years with dedication and honor," Loudenbeck said in the release. "In addition, he has been a wonderful ally and mentor to me personally."

The 11th District includes portions of Walworth, Rock, Jefferson, Waukesha, Kenosha and Racine counties.